The first time they had to go against that template, against England, their bowlers struggled early and their batters appeared to succumb to the pressure of the required rate.

New Zealand will want to rectify errors from the England game before a bigger platform, and a tougher opponent comes calling. But pushing Ireland aside will be no mean task. They’ve already upset England in a rain-shortened game, not long after thumping West Indies by nine wickets and hunting down 177 against Scotland from a position of 61 for 4.

Barring Lorcan Tucker’s attacking, unbeaten 71 against Australia, however, Ireland’s batters have struggled in the Super 12s. Against New Zealand, they will be tested once more. However, there’s nothing quite like pulling off another landmark win, even if their chances of making the semis are negligible.